Walking Up the Ramp
What do you need a ramp for?
OBJECTIVE: To remember the concept of the slope of a line using the mnemonic 'rise over run'
A common mnemonic used to remember the concept of the slope of a line is RISE/RUN (read: RISE OVER RUN).
Use the slider at the bottom of the applet below to dynamically illustrate how 'rise over run' works.
QUESTION: Do you think you'll get the same result if you do 'run' first before you do 'rise'? Briefly explain.
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. The applet below gives a value of the slope at the upper left-hand corner.
2. Move the dots in such a way that the slope of the line passing through the two dots matches the given slope.
3. Click the "Check Your Graph" checkbox to determine if you're correct. If the slope of your line matches the slope displayed, you'll see a "CORRECT" sign appear. If your line does not have the slope displayed, you'll see a "Not Correct" sign appear. If this happens, try again.
4. Click "New Problem" to get a new slope.
Repeat until you have mastered the concept.
TIP : Lower one dot and keep it as your anchor. Then move the other dot to the position of the lower dot and apply 'rise over run' by counting spaces.
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. The applet below gives the graph of a line.
2. Determine the slope of the line by counting spaces and applying the concept of 'rise over run.'
3. Enter this slope as a ratio in the white text-box provided. After doing so, click "Check Answer."
4. If you enter a correct ratio, you'll see a big "Correct!" sign appear. If your ratio is not correct, keep trying until you're able to enter this slope correctly.
5. Click "New Problem" to get a new graph.
Repeat until you have mastered the concept.
The ramp shown below is an example of a simple machine called an inclined plane.
Move the white dots to come up with a ramp design that is not only aesthetic, but also efficient.
QUESTION: What is the value of the slope you got for your ideal ramp design? Is your 'rise' less than, equal to, or greater than your 'run'? What do you think are the advantages of your design over alternative designs? Briefly explain. (Answers vary.)
TODAY you learned an expression to remember the concept of the slope of a line more easily—rise/run.
In future lessons, you'll learn the math behind the slope of a line. We hope you ENJOYED today's activities.